[Even in dreams, L can't shrug off the limitations of a body that runs on sinew and will and not much else. It's not long before Paul has caught up to him; if Paul's pace remains steady he'll be overtaken entirely.
L continues to climb, dogged and determined to make up for what he lacks in nimbleness and strength.
He doesn't expect Paul's question, though he probably should. His hand slips, nails digging in, and he slides a few dizzy feet before he catches himself and regains his hold. Panting and shaking with adrenaline, it's a moment before he can answer.]
You're not the one who walked away from that drowning; I did.
[Only to lie down and slip under at the Pale Sanctuary, but L takes full responsibility for that more metaphorical drowning. He takes full responsibility for most of what's hurt him; even if an attempt on his life was blatant and intentional, he's always understood why it was made.
Mistakes happen; pieces get taken to serve a greater end. His admiration for the game eclipses his need for altruistic love or acceptance, or else he'd have lain down a long time ago.
He reaches up for another hold with a hand that has a few ragged and bleeding nails. Can Paul feel them in the dream? Have they shown up on his body in the waking world?
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L continues to climb, dogged and determined to make up for what he lacks in nimbleness and strength.
He doesn't expect Paul's question, though he probably should. His hand slips, nails digging in, and he slides a few dizzy feet before he catches himself and regains his hold. Panting and shaking with adrenaline, it's a moment before he can answer.]
You're not the one who walked away from that drowning; I did.
[Only to lie down and slip under at the Pale Sanctuary, but L takes full responsibility for that more metaphorical drowning. He takes full responsibility for most of what's hurt him; even if an attempt on his life was blatant and intentional, he's always understood why it was made.
Mistakes happen; pieces get taken to serve a greater end. His admiration for the game eclipses his need for altruistic love or acceptance, or else he'd have lain down a long time ago.
He reaches up for another hold with a hand that has a few ragged and bleeding nails. Can Paul feel them in the dream? Have they shown up on his body in the waking world?
He starts to climb again.]
Drowning, I can abide; I just hate to lose.